By Aaron Ukodie
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that mobile network operators (MNOs) are deploying more than 12,000 new coverage and capacity sites across the country as part of ongoing efforts to improve network quality and expand telecommunications services.
This was one of the key resolutions contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Commission’s 109th Board Meeting held on May 25, 2026.
According to the communiqué, operators have already completed more than 5,000 of the planned sites, representing over 40 per cent of the rollout target. The Board also noted that fibre connectivity has been extended to more than 700 sites to strengthen network resilience, backhaul capacity and service reliability.
The Commission said infrastructure sharing and co-location companies have also upgraded equipment across more than 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to support network expansion and improve compliance with Quality of Service (QoS) obligations.
A major highlight of the meeting was the Board’s review of the implementation of the Commission’s directive requiring operators to compensate subscribers affected by poor service quality in locations where prescribed service standards were not met.
The Board noted that more than 75 million subscribers have received compensation following full compliance by operators with the directive. However, it stated that the Commission is independently validating operators’ claims to ensure that all eligible consumers receive the compensation due to them.
The Board also expressed concern over the partial compliance by Tower Companies (TowerCos) with a directive requiring them to reinvest regulatory fines into infrastructure upgrades through escrow-funded projects. While acknowledging progress, the Board stressed the need for full compliance to ensure sustainable infrastructure improvements and enhanced service delivery.
On broadband development, the Board reviewed data consumption trends and observed that increasing demand for digital services continues to be constrained by inadequate infrastructure capacity, dependence on mobile broadband and duplication of network assets.
The Board, however, welcomed the growth in Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) subscriptions, which rose from 84,141 in the fourth quarter of 2025 to 210,065 connections by the first quarter of 2026, reflecting increasing adoption of fixed broadband services.
According to the Board, wider deployment of FTTH and other fixed-fibre connections will help reduce pressure on mobile networks, improve service quality and provide consumers with more connectivity options.
The Commission also disclosed that it is reviewing the structure of the telecommunications market to better reflect the realities of the wholesale and retail segments and ensure appropriate regulatory measures are applied where necessary.
The Board maintained that expanded access to wholesale backbone fibre and metropolitan fibre networks would encourage broadband penetration, lower connectivity costs and create conditions for more affordable retail data services.
Addressing security concerns, the Board expressed concern over persistent vandalism and damage to telecommunications infrastructure, describing it as a major impediment to industry growth.
While commending efforts by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) following the designation of telecommunications facilities as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), the Board called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to protect network assets.
To strengthen infrastructure security, the Board disclosed that it is exploring the feasibility of establishing a Communications Industry Security Trust Fund.
The Board also reviewed ongoing consultations on the development of a framework for the zero-rating of educational platforms and content in Nigeria. The initiative is aimed at promoting digital inclusion, narrowing the urban-rural digital divide and improving educational outcomes through affordable access to learning resources.
In another decision, the Board approved interim appointments to the governing board of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) following governance gaps arising from the expiration of the tenure of the institution’s chairman and some board members.
Princess Oforitsenere Emiko, a Non-Executive Commissioner of the NCC, was appointed Interim Chairman of the DBI Governing Board, while Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Engr. Abraham Oshadami, and Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, Ms. Rimini Makama, were appointed interim board members.
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive and resilient communications sector, with continued emphasis on quality of service, consumer protection, transparency, fair competition and market discipline.
